Peru In Depth and the Inca Trail

19 days
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
View all 22 photos
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews  
98%
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
premier

Health Safety +

Cancellation Policy
Small Group Tour
Journey from Lima to Cusco, ticking off Peru's must-sees and off-the-beaten-track gems. This tour combines hikes around the country's highlights with trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Journey to the mysterious Nazca Lines, visit the 'White City' of Arequipa, see the impressive Colca Canyon and spend a night on Taquile Island, all before finishing up in...
19%
$4,563
From$3,710
See departure dates

Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Extreme

Highlights

    • Comprehensive journey visiting Peru's stunning highlights
    • Walk the classic Inca Trail route to Machu Picchu
    • Experience a night on Taquile Island, Lake Titicaca

What's this trip about?

    Journey from Lima to Cusco, ticking off Peru's must-sees and off-the-beaten-track gems. This tour combines hikes around the country's highlights with trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Journey to the mysterious Nazca Lines, visit the 'White City' of Arequipa, see the impressive Colca Canyon and spend a night on Taquile Island, all before finishing up in cosmopolitan Cusco, the former Inca capital. Colca Canyon - Witness condors flying above one of the world's deepest canyons. Lake Titicaca - Get to grips with island life at a homestay on the stunning lake. Machu Picchu - Follow the Inca Trail before ticking Machu Picchu off your bucket list. Quarry Trail - When Inca permits have sold out, we offer the Quarry Trek, a quieter route with fewer crowds and spectacular views, joining the final day of the Inca Trail into Machu Picchu.

Details

Itinerary focusOff the Beaten Path
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 20 people
Age range16 to 85 years
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityLima
End CityCusco

Travel Themes

  • Trekking & Expeditions

Destinations

  • South America
  • Peru
  • Europe
  • Italy

Attractions

  • Aguas Calientes
  • Arequipa
  • Cusco
  • Inca Trail
  • Lake Titicaca
  • Lima
  • Machu Picchu
  • Nazca
  • Ollantaytambo
  • Pisa
  • Puno
  • Sacred Valley
  • Urubamba

Activities

  • Trekking

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1 Join trip Lima, afternoon city tour

Our trip starts today in Lima, Peru's capital, which was founded in 1535 AD by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro. The modern cosmopolitan city is littered with reminders of its colonial and pre-Hispanic past, particularly in the historical centre. The city is...

Day 2 Visit Pachacamac, drive to Paracas National Park

Today we'll head south on the Panamerican Highway. We'll stop at the ancient religious centre of Pachacamac, whose many pre-Inca and Incan adobe walls and temples have miraculously stood for hundreds of years, preserved by the desert climate. We'll continue to Paracas...

Day 3 Optional boat trip to Islas Ballestas, continue to Nazca

This morning, there's the possibility to take an optional excursion to the Ballestas Islands to see a large colony of sea lions, seabirds and even penguins. We'll then continue south pausing at the huge dunes outside the town at Huacachina Oasis before driving to the ...

Day 4 Journey inland through the Andean Mountains to Arequipa

Today, we have a full day's drive through desert landscapes. Following the coastal route through the desert, we'll pass the settlement of Puerto Chala. In Inca times relays of chasquis (runners) transported fresh fish 250 kilometres to Cusco in the mountains in just o...

Day 5 Explore Peru's 'White City', visit Santa Catalina Convent

This morning we'll explore this beautiful city, situated at 2,380 metres/7,809 feet and surrounded by snowcapped mountains including the conical peak of El Misti (5,822 metres/19,102 feet). The city itself was founded by the Spanish in 1540, on the site of an old Inca...

Day 6 Continue to the town of Chivay, optional afternoon walk in the Colca Valley

Heading north from Arequipa, today we'll enter the world of the Altiplano (high plain). We'll drive behind the volcanoes that ring Arequipa and on to Chivay, passing herds of llama and alpaca - if we're lucky, we might spot the elusive vicuna. We'll briefly reach the ...

Day 7 Walk along the Colca Canyon

A spectacular river gorge, the Colca Canyon measures twice the depth of the more famous Grand Canyon and at one time it was believed to be the deepest gorge on earth (until it was eclipsed by the deeper Cotahuasi Canyon). Largely unknown to the outside world until the...

Day 8 Condor viewing, drive to Puno on the shore of Lake Titicaca

From Chivay, we'll make an early start to the Mirador Cruz del Condor, overlooking the magnificent Colca Canyon, where we'll hope to spot the rare Andean Condor. Seeing these magnificent birds in flight is a highlight of any trip. Driving east, via the Patapampa Pa...

Day 9 Boat to Taquile, stay in island village house

The Uros people dwell on the lake itself, on floating islands of totora, a reedlike papyrus that grows in the shallows and is used in the construction of houses and boats. We'll continue by motorboat to Taquile Island which has preserved much of its Inca and pre-Inca ...

Day 10 Island walk, return to Puno by boat

This morning, we'll walk across the island to take in the views. On Taquile Island, the local people preserve a rich tradition of music and dance. This is the ideal opportunity to buy locally produced knitted goods - produced by the men of the island. In the afternoon...

Day 11 Drive through the mountains to Ollanta via Raqchi Temple

Today we'll follow the legendary route taken by the first Inca ruler, Manco Capac, on his way to Cusco. Driving up to the northern limit of the Altiplano on a public bus, we'll cross La Raya pass (4,335 metres/14,223 feet) and make a stop at the Inca temple of Raqchi,...

Day 12 Free day in Sacred Valley, visit Pisac or walk to Moray

Today is free for you to explore the Sacred Valley and there are plenty of things to do. You could choose to visit the market at Pisac, and its incredible Inca ruins spread out amphitheatre fashion far above the town, or walk to the ruins at Moray. There is also th...

Day 13 Commence Inca Trail walking to Llaqtapata ruins or walking to the site of Q'orimarca on the Quarry Trail

Once the Inca Trail permits sell out, we organise our hikes to Machu Picchu along the Quarry Trail, with a fully licenced and experienced trekking guide and the usual crew of porters. We'll let you know prior to booking which permits are available, and the itinerary f...

Day 14 Follow the river to Llulluchapampa on the Inca Trail or cross Kuychicasa pass (4,450 metres) and visit Intipunku site on the Quarry Trail

Inca Trail After a hearty breakfast, we'll cross the river to visit the Llaqtapata Inca ruins before continuing with the trek. Today, we'll follow the course of the Kusichaca River past small communities, crossing it to reach Wayllabamba, a quiet village of Inca orig...

Day 15 Cross 'Dead Woman's Pass' (4,200 metres), hike through cloud forest to Phuyupatamarca on the Inca Trail or descend to Ollantaytambo on the Quarry Trail

Inca Trail Today we'll have an earlier start as we trek over the Warmiwanusca (Dead Woman's) Pass to 4,200 metres/13,780 feet. The two-hour ascent is one of the more challenging sections of the trek, we'll take it slow and steady with many stops to admire the view an...

Day 16 Arrive to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate

Inca Trail Today is our final day walking along the Inca Trail. We'll say thanks and goodbye to our porters and begin our trek into Machu Picchu. We'll pass the Phuyupatamarca ruins and spend the majority of the morning going down following stone paths and stairways,...

Day 17 Guided tour of Machu Picchu, return to Cusco by train and by bus.

Our final morning in the mountains is spent at Machu Picchu, probably the most astounding feat of engineering in all of ancient America. Temples, stairways, palaces and gabled stone dwellings are scattered everywhere, testifying to the energy and ingenuity of the buil...

Day 18 Walking tour of Cusco, visit to Sacsayhuaman

This morning, we'll take an immersive walking tour through the captivating city of Cusco, kicking things off in the colossal archaeological site of Sacsayhuaman, a stone fortress that's still at the core of Cusco's traditions. Winding our way along an old Incan trail,...

Day 19 Trip ends in Cusco

Our trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Cusco. There are no activities planned today, so you\ re free to depart from Cusco at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you\ d like an airp...

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:

  • You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
  • Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics
Design custom trip

Dates & Availability

Price From $3,710
Price per day$195
Last Updated: 5/3/2024
Start Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Single Room (Optional)
Availability
08 May 2024
26 May 2024
$4,130
$540
2 spots left
11 Sep 2024
29 Sep 2024
$3,790
$540
7 spots left
25 Sep 2024
13 Oct 2024
$4,020
$540
7 spots left
23 Oct 2024
10 Nov 2024
$3,710
$540
8 spots left
26 Mar 2025
13 Apr 2025
$4,030
$580
16 spots left
19 Apr 2025
07 May 2025
$4,030
$580
16 spots left
07 May 2025
25 May 2025
$4,030
$580
14 spots left
04 Jun 2025
22 Jun 2025
$4,030
$580
16 spots left
10 Sep 2025
28 Sep 2025
$4,030
$580
16 spots left
24 Sep 2025
12 Oct 2025
$4,030
$580
16 spots left

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Explore!.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Travelstride Gift Card
One card, thousands of extraordinary trips
Gifts Card

Explore! Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
Excellent
6,582
Great
2,187
Average
375
Disappointing
116
Terrible
56
R

Ruth

Apr 2024

Written on

Peru In Depth and the Inca Trail

This trip 'Peru In depth and the Inca trail' was the perfect length of time to spend after a long haul flight. It also meant that we were properly acclimatised by th...

T

Trusted Customer

Apr 2024

Written on

Peru In Depth and the Inca Trail

What a wonderful way to see Peru! This was a long but such as varied and exciting trip. We started the trip in Lima (a busy and bustling city with lots to see) and t...

A

Angela

Apr 2024

Written on

Peru In Depth and the Inca Trail

A very full and comprehensive trip with an array of interesting guides contributing their local knowledge along the way, and a nice small friendly group of people. ...

J

John

Apr 2024

Written on

Peru In Depth and the Inca Trail

The Peru In Depth and the Inca Trail felt like several separate trips all in one. This required a lot of organization of our Leader Darwin to keep the tour on the ri...

S

Sara

Apr 2024

Written on

Peru In Depth and the Inca Trail

Just back from a wonderful trip to Peru, made extra special by our amazing tour leader, Darwin. So much packed into this trip....would have loved to have stayed eve...

Write a Review

Other Explore! Reviews

B

Bob

May 2024

Written on

Best of Morocco

Best of Morocco, with Explore April 2024 Excellent trip. An amazing country. I am already missing the resonant mellifluous calls to prayer every few hours. Fascin...

J

Josephine

May 2024

Written on

Costa Rica Wildlife Tour

Fabulous trip. Wildlife wonderful. Luis was a really...

Write a Review

Tour Operator

Explore!

premier
View Profile

About Explore

We've been taking small groups on adventure vacations for over 41 years. Our authentic adventure travel experiences explore the sights and culture of a country, with hand-picked accommodation that balances comfort and location. Our average group tour size is just 11; perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Explore is one of the world's most trusted adventure travel companies with over 350 trips to more than 100 countries. We are passionate about travel and have developed a wide range of unique activities and adventures which give our customers an unforgettable experience with a team of award-winning Explore leaders. With Explore, you'll get to see your destination from a whole new perspective that takes you away from the typical well-trodden tourist track. You'll have the chance to meet, dine and stay with local people, rest in authentic accommodation with other like-minded explorers and travel to must-see destinations with a unique Explore twist. From family holidays to trips for solo travelers; cycling tours to wildlife safaris; trekking on mountains or exploring miles of scenic coastline, there is something for every kind of traveler with Explore. We will provide our expert knowledge, exciting itineraries and outstanding service as part of our sustainable travel experiences which take you under the skin of the country you're visiting for the adventure of a lifetime.


Why we love this operator
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
What they’re known for
Famous for our expert local guides that help ease the unknowns of adventure travel while bringing a unique richness and spontaneity to each and every

About Travelstride

Find your perfect trip

An epic selection of pre-planned trips on every continent, for every style. Thousands of itineraries from over 1,000 trusted travel companies.

Save time

Use simple search and comparison tools to easily find the best trip. Don't sweat the logistics — travel providers plan for you.

Save money

Book directly with the operator. See inclusive packages for the best values, and get access to amazing deals.

Travel confidently

Read unbiased user reviews, pick the operator that suits your needs, and connect with them directly.

Logistics

Transportation & Flights

Bus, Boat, Train,

Transportation & flights

Bus, Boat, Train
Guides
Explore Tour Leader, Boat Crew, Cook, Local Guide(s), Porter(s)
Cancellation policy
These conditions are applicable to Discovery & Wildlife, Cycling, Walking and Family Trips. These conditions were updated November 2022. Booked a Polar trip? Please refer to our Polar booking conditions. To make it easy to know the detail of our flexibility, we’ve put it in a grid (these terms apply to all trips apart from our Polar Voyages.) Standard cancellations or changes within 69 days of travel If you’re getting closer to your trip, cancellation charges will apply as follows: For trips confirmed by 31st December 2022: 59-42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100% For trips confirmed from 1st January 2023: 69 -42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100%
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Peru: Visas are not required for UK, New Zealand, Australian, US and Canadian citizens. Other nationalities should consult the relevant consulate. USA: If your flights pass through the USA, even if only in transit, you will require either a visa or an ESTA (an e-visa). Please read on for more information. Citizens of the UK, New Zealand, Australia, Canada and passport holders from several EU countries can apply for an ESTA under certain conditions. This applies if you enter the country by sea or by air, and this must be done online via https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov, no later than 72 hours prior to travel. Travellers who have not registered before their trip are likely be refused boarding. You must have a biometric passport to apply for an ESTA. UK passports which are biometric feature a small gold symbol (camera) at the bottom of the front cover. If you have visited Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen since 2011 or are dual nationals of these countries, you cannot travel with an ESTA and instead you will need to apply for a visa from the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. If you are unable to provide a valid visa before boarding flights to the US, or entering via another method, you may not be permitted to travel. You should also be aware that if you have travelled to or have been in Cuba since the 12th of January 2021, you will not be eligible for an ESTA visa waiver and will need to apply for a US visa. You should consult the US State Department website to determine which you will need. Your ESTA application will ask for Point of Contact information. Please note that if you're only transiting through the USA then this is not required. If you're visiting or staying in the USA on an Explore trip, then our USA contact information will be listed on your final documentation which you will receive approximately 3-4 weeks before departure. Entry requirements for the USA can change regularly, therefore, please ensure you have the most up to date information before you travel by checking the US embassy website. Visa applications - http://london.usembassy.gov/niv/apply.html Canada: An electronic travel authorisation (ETA) is required by British citizens transiting via Canada. For more information see the official Canadian government website: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta.asp Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office
Health & Safety
Nothing compulsory, we recommend protection against typhoid, tetanus, polio and hepatitis A. Please consult your travel clinic for the latest advice on Malaria, Dengue and Zika Virus. Please take preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites - these include mosquito repellent as well as long trousers and long sleeve shirts to cover up when necessary. Please note many countries in Central America, South America and the Caribbean require a yellow fever vaccination certificates if travelling from infected areas. A detailed list of these countries can be found on the NaTHNaC website - http://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries. Also on the NaTHNaC site there is a list of Countries (and specific areas within a country) which are at risk of infection and a vaccination is therefore recommended. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at <a href="https://www.explore.co.uk/essential-information/know-before-you-go/travel-health">Explore Travel Health</a> and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast : 18
  • Dinner : 3
  • Lunch : 6
Age Requirements
16 to 85 years
Additional Information
Trip ID
explore-PE

Become a member

(it's free)
  • Save up to $700 per person
  • Access members-only specials
  • Personalize trip recommendations
Sign up and save
Top Tour Companies on Travelstride:
All 1,600+ companies >
Sign in to reveal savings up to $700 per person!